February 2006

Last month, on the same day, I learned of a friend diagnosed with breast cancer at age 35, and a friend of a friend diagnosed with breast cancer at age 28. If I ever needed something to snap me back to reality and remind me why I do this job, those phone calls served that purpose. 

It is unacceptable to me personally, and to us as an organization, that women this young are being diagnosed every day. I suppose if there is good to come out of this news, it’s that they have renewed my commitment to this job, this mission and this passion. Thankfully, both of these young women caught their cancer very early and are expected to have full recoveries. That doesn’t mean it won’t be quite a roller coaster ride until they get there. 

The single biggest risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman. The second is getting older.  But while ¾ of all breast cancer cases occur in women over 50, it is so important for every woman to pay attention to any changes, be proactive and get regular mammograms. If you have a strong family history, as in the case of the 35-year old, talk to your doctor about it. If you don’t have a family history, talk to your doctor about it anyway. We must be diligent when it comes to our own health because no one else will.  

I feel strongly that if a woman has to have breast cancer, at least she is fortunate to live in Pennsylvania, where we have some of the best resources, top doctors at top cancer centers, compassionate support groups and this organization, which is THE voice for breast cancer survivors. We fight for those who can’t fight for themselves.  And I am proud to do that everyday. 

Sincerely,

Heather Hibshman
Executive Director